Along with all the beautiful blessings and spiritual fulfilment, the holy month of Ramadan becomes a time in our life that really brings out the love for food.

The preparation of food and planning of Iftar outings certainly brings families, friends and even coworkers closer, deepening the bonds of love and camaraderie before we head off for prayers and supplications.

Sitting at a table surrounded by the people you love and a delicious cuisine during Ramadan is certainly a special feeling. Undoubtedly, this has become a significant part of our culture, every year at this time.

In the wake of last year's footsteps, we bring you eight picks of some of the best Iftar options across the Greater Male’ region, including well-loved ones and newer names on the scene.

Goatfish Cafe’ & Bistro

The rustic-vintage themed cafe’ and bistro is highly popular, especially among the youth of Male’.

Both menu and prices vary over the week, with the most diverse and expensive one available on Friday.

For children under 10 years, the bistro offers half price for all menus.

The Charcoal Cafe’

Plate set by The Charcoal Cafe’. PHOTO: THE CHARCOAL CAFE'

Iftar Buffet rate per person: MVR 245 (all inclusive)

Although recently opened, the cafe’ has already become a favourite among many.

The Charcoal Cafe’ has one of the most unique Iftar menu options. Customers have the liberty of choosing from three set menus when making reservations.

For the first week, the cafe’ is doing a special giveaway. Following the required steps, you stand a chance to win a free breakfast for two people. According to the cafe’, the winner will be announced on May 15.

GG’s Kitchen

A group of people enjoying food from GG's Kitchen. PHOTO: GG'S KITCHEN

The restaurant has multiple offers exclusive to Ramadan. For the first seven days, customers get a 15 percent discount, and if your group exceeds 10, the 11th receives a free Iftar.

Children under five years eat for free while those between 6-11 years of age receive 50 percent off from all menus.

Mamak

A dish from Mamak. PHOTO: MAMAK

Iftar Buffet rate per person: MVR 129 (all inclusive)

This comfort-food restaurant based in Hulhumale’ features one of the cheapest Iftar offers in this list. Their “Spend less. Waste less” Iftar menu for only MVR 60 was available for the first few days of Ramadan. From May 10, a new range of menus was introduced for MVR 129, for any day of the week. However, the ‘minimalist’ menu is still available for takeaway.

Moreover, the restaurant has special menus of takeaway options for Ramadan.

Children under three years can eat for free while half price is offered for those under 10 years.

Mamak also has a special offer for groups exceeding 15. The restaurant offers a custom menu if the booking is made one day in advance.